Desperate Passage Father/Son

 ((Wed. (10), 8-10 p.m., KTLA))

By VAN GORDON SAUTER

Executive producers, Jane and Bert Boeckmann; producers, Linda and Lee Stanley; director, Lee Stanley.
 
Host, Edward James Olmos.
 

Three estranged father-son combinations are thrown into close quarters aboard a sailboat and, in that intimate proximity, and on camera, confront their alienation and make the initial steps toward reconciliation.

Filmmaker Lee Stanley uses his sailboat to create a claustrophobic environment where dysfunctional people can't conceal their shared demons and ultimately must heave overboard the anger and resentment that impedes healing.

The three combinations here are easy to root for, which is not to say they seem guaranteed winners. Their father-son relationships-- all improved--still seem tenuous. But there are grounds for optimism.

This is reality broadcasting with a strong appeal for those familiar with this form of family social breakdown, or who believe in these techniques for resolving personal crisis. It is also reasonably engaging drama.

This is the third of a six-part series in which Stanley and his family work to emancipate young people from their anguish and conflict. The material is well produced, and while some may find it intrusive or contrived, it is good television.

Edward James Olmos is an effective host.

Music, Frank W. Becker.